HB 215 Texas House · 89th Legislature, 1st Called Session (2025)

Relating to the liability of a landowner for the withdrawal and beneficial use of groundwater.

HB 215 modifies Texas law to limit landowner liability for groundwater use. It specifically protects landowners (including lessees, heirs, and assigns) who pump 25,000+ gallons of groundwater daily for beneficial use, stating they cannot be sued for interference unless their pumping: (1) lowers water tables harming neighboring land, or (2) unreasonably harms watercourses/lakes. The bill applies only to lawsuits filed after its effective date. This change directly affects large-scale groundwater users, such as agricultural or industrial operations, by reducing legal risks for routine use.
Bill status introduced 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jul 2025
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jul 28, 2025 Last action Jul 28, 2025